Local News
Fatal wreck prompts warning systems at railroad crossings
The death of two parents and their 6-day-old son last month after their car collided with a train has prompted town officials to add warning systems to its three railroad tracks.
Posted — UpdatedPRINCETON, N.C. — The death of two parents and their 6-day-old son last month after their car collided with a train has prompted town officials to add warning systems to its three railroad tracks.
Brannon Worth Brady, 25, and Crystal Lee Higgins, 22, who both lived in Princeton and were engaged to be married, died in the Aug. 29 wreck. Their son, Sklyar, died at WakeMed the next day.
The incident happened along U.S. Highway 70 Alternate outside of Princeton. Authorities said the car was trying to cross the rail line at Herring Road when the train hit it.
Witnesses said Brady pulled up to the rail crossing and tapped his brakes but didn't stop and was hit as he pulled onto the tracks.
Authorities estimated the wreck was caused by a combination of Brady initially not seeing the train and his then trying to beat it to the crossing.
The crossing is one of three in Princeton with no warning lights or crossbars to indicate a train is approaching and to block access.
As a result of the accident, officials said Wednesday all three crossings will receive warning systems.
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